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Why We Like This Place

Poised on the banks of a serene lagoon, Sofitel San Francisco Bay conveys a contemporary elegance. Sofitel’s European heritage and French-inspired cuisine are complemented by a California-style friendliness and an experienced staff that make guests feel right at home.

The marble-clad lobby boasts a striking abstract blown-glass chandelier in shades of sapphire blue, reminiscent of the sun-splashed waters of the bay. Throughout the public spaces, the same vibrant blues play against the interior’s muted hues as eye-catching accents—throw pillows on a dove-gray sofa in bay bar; painted library alcoves; and restaurant bay 223’s modern dining banquettes. In fact, the hotel décor is stunning, applied with sleek, fresh brushstrokes befitting its uniquely presented luxury.

Wedding ceremonies sparkle out on the dock, which overlooks a tranquil waterway where egrets and blue herons feed alongside flocks of ducks and geese. Follow up with a cocktail hour on the landscaped patio surrounding the swimming pool, with the glistening lagoon as a picturesque backdrop.

There are plenty of event options indoors as well—15 rooms in all, including Sofitel’s 6,200-square-foot Grand Ballroom. Serve cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Foyer, adorned with illuminated swags of blue crystals. Inside, the recently renovated Grand Ballroom is done in a refined color scheme of gold, sand and cream with accents of blue. Avant-garde lighting fixtures incorporate wavy sheets of striped glass that are in harmony with shimmery drapes in the same honey and copper earth tones. One wall of floor-to-ceiling windows looks out to a porte-cochère, where water flows from a Mediterranean-style fountain. The Grand Ballroom can be used in its entirety or divided in half, depending on the size of your party.

Wedding showers and rehearsal dinners take on an air of exclusive intimacy in the Grand Salon or Blue Room. Small receptions are held in the Veranda, a room enclosed entirely by glass walls. Marble detailing and floors inlaid with dark wood add extra flair.

Cuisine is not an afterthought at Sofitel—the kitchen has a reputation for superbly prepared gourmet fare, best described as Bay Area French. Creative menus employ fresh local ingredients and the expertise of a French culinary staff for a marvelous dining experience.

To help you relax after the big event, Sofitel offers a complimentary suite for the bride and groom, with champagne and strawberries upon arrival, and special group rates for out-of-town guests. All the rooms feature Sofitel’s signature SoBed, a plush featherbed oasis of comfort. There will be plenty of takers for any overnight accommodations you arrange, as guests will want to extend their visit to this fashionable establishment as long as possible!

MEETING CAPACITY: 15 rooms are available including the Ballroom, the Executive Board Room, and a variety of salons. The facility holds 10–400 classroom-style, 12–30 conference-style, 14–50 in a U-shape and 10–700 seated theater-style.

Fees & Deposits

For events, 10% of the estimated total is required as a nonrefundable deposit when you book your date; 50% of the estimated total is due 6 months prior to the event, and another 25% is due 1 month prior. The remaining balance is required 1 week prior to the event, and a guaranteed guest count is due 3 business days prior. Any remaining charges are payable at the conclusion of the event. Wedding packages range $100–150/person; sales tax and a 20% service charge are additional. The Sofitel offers a discount for Friday and Sunday receptions. For meetings, room rental fees start at $400/day.